At a late morning news conference, Lake County Sheriff’s Det. Chris Covelli said, around 7:50 a.m., the officer radioed he was pursuing three suspects, after looking into their "suspicious activity." Police lost radio contact with the officer, who was later found with a gunshot wound. Shortly after the news conference, Covelli confirmed that the officer died.

According to Covelli, police are conducting a ground and air search for the three suspects, two of whom are white and one black. Reports unconfirmed by police indicate that the suspects may have stolen the slain officer’s gun and pepper spray.

As the manhunt continues, police have directed individuals in the area to remain inside and call 911 to report any suspicious activity. Area schools have been placed on lockdown and some trains have been stopped because of the police activity.

Officers from at least six different agencies, many of whom are substantially armed, are currently aiding with the manhunt. K-9 units and helicopters are also being used. Forces appear to have focused on a particular marshy area.

Morgan Chalfant is a staff writer at the Washington Free Beacon. Prior to joining the Free Beacon, Morgan worked as a staff writer at Red Alert Politics. She also served as the year-long Collegiate Network fellow on the editorial page at USA TODAY from 2013-14. Morgan graduated from Boston College in 2013 with a B.A. in English and Mathematics. Her Twitter handle is @mchalfant16.